If like so many Brits you love to travel, then now is the time to get excited! With tonnes of countries around the world achieving high vaccinations and lifting COVID-19 restrictions - it’s finally time to get back on that big bird and spread your wings again!
Are you setting your sights on your next holiday for 2022, but not sure where to start? Or are you worried that costs for vacations may have changed since your last trip with the uncertainty around travelling and the rising demand? If so, then please don’t panic!
There are plenty of ways you can enjoy a holiday again in 2022 even if you’re on a tight budget, by simply following some of our tips and tricks from our money-saving experts.
Broaden Your Travel Horizon
First things first, don’t be nervous to try somewhere new! As so many of us have learned since the pandemic began, going on a vacation doesn’t always mean you have to travel overseas on a fancy 5* break.
Instead, make sure the destination you choose is within your means and you’re able to save the cash without breaking the bank each month! We also recommend taking a look at sites like Expedia when booking your holiday – you’re likely to find cheaper deals than most high street travel agencies.
Maybe you could look at booking a more local break within the UK to save money? There are lots of great places to explore. Or you might also find your dream overseas beach holiday at a great price.
Either way, it’s crucial that you do your research to get an idea of the type of trip you want and how much it’s going to set you back.
Travel in Low Season
Travelling abroad over the summer break may sound like a dream!
However, if you are talking about low-cost ways to travel the world then you may be better off going on holiday during off-peak times - especially if you don’t have to wait until the kids’ school holidays to travel. You could also bag yourself a deal on your holiday by booking last minute at sites like Lastminute.com.
This could mean lower temperatures if you’re looking for a sunny holiday. However, finding the less popular times to visit your budget travel destination is one of the easiest ways to travel cheaply.
Shop Around for Accommodation
Shopping around for accommodation is going to save you lots of dollars in the long run if you put the time and effort into it.
Often self-catering holidays are usually the cheapest, as you are able to book an apartment and cater to your own needs and around your own personal budget.
Comparison sites such as Cheapair are a great way to check out the most competitive rates for your accommodation, where you can view all of the best live deals.
However, if you don't have the time to look or want to avoid any stress of booking flights and accommodation separately then you could always book a holiday package on a site like TUI.
Look Out for the Best Deals on Flights
When it comes to flying, search engines such as Skyscanner and Kayak are great ways to help you find low-priced flights! And you can’t forget budget airlines like Easyjet for cheap flights. However, there are other tips that you should also consider.
If you live local to multiple airports, then why not look at individual flights to see if it may be cheaper to fly back to a different airport, rather than searching for flights as returns?
It may also be a good idea for you to look at how much baggage you take. Think about whether you really need those 4 pairs of shoes? Or 10 swimsuits for a week’s trip? (even if they are all really cute).
Reducing the amount of baggage you are taking can generally significantly reduce the amount your flights may cost.
Book Excursions in Advance
Another good tip for saving money whilst you’re travelling is to book any excursions and activities in advance at sights like Keytours!
These should, of course, be factored into your overall ‘vacation spending money’ budget. However, if you’re planning to go to waterparks or tours while you’re there for example, then booking early generally means you can snap up some better deals than you would on the day.
You can even find a whole bunch of coupon codes for tickets and events on our website for things such as sightseeing tours, theme parks, and more.
Research The Destination
As well as booking excursions and activities, consider all of the great free things you could do!
You’re on holiday, after all - so why not simply embrace the local culture and go and explore? Remember that you don’t always have to be doing activities that cost money, and there will still be tonnes of great ways you can enjoy your trip on a budget.
Tripadvisor is a great place you could start when doing your research into destinations and accomodation. Search by the city or town of the local area where you’re staying, and you’ll be provided with a whole list of their top attractions!
Take a Travel Credit Card
Travel credit cards are one of the cheapest ways to spend money abroad as it will give you a nearly perfect exchange rate on all of your purchases, anywhere in the world.
This could end up saving you a heck of a lot if you intend on making a few purchases on your card whilst you’re away. Or will even give you peace of mind if you plan on just taking cash but find yourself falling short.
You may have to pay a small annual fee on a travel credit card, however you’ll definitely make you’re money back with it if you’re someone that likes to travel. And if you shop around for the best cards, you may even find one that offers an introductory reward!
Take Your Own Food
Taking your own food with you can be a great and simple way to save money on holiday!
If you are travelling self-catering, eating out at restaurants for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day can become costly.
You could try taking cereals with you for breakfast, tins of food for dinners - or even bags of crisps or chocolate for snacks throughout the day. This could be a lifesaver if you’re taking kids with you that are fussy eaters, too!
Pre-Book a Rental Car or Use Transfer Agencies
When planning a holiday it is also good to think about how you will get around during your time there as taxis or even public transport for a large family can become very costly.
Booking an airport transfer or hiring a car is a great way for you to save money on travelling whilst there, and will also give you peace of mind so that you’re able to budget in advance for this.
You could check out Hoppa.com, who offer lots of great prices and discounts when using their service.
At Hey Discount, we’re passionate about helping people save money where they can. We hope this article has given you a few ideas on how to save money on a holiday in 2022 – especially if you’re on a tight budget.
For more of our money-saving tips, please check out our blog here or contact us for more information.
